Universal Destinations & Experiences has announced the themed lands kids and families will experience at Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, which the company calls “a first-of-its-kind resort” specifically designed for families with young children.
Opening next year, Universal Kids Resort will feature lands themed around kid-favorite characters including DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek, Puss in Boots, Trolls, and Gabby’s Dollhouse; Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants; Illumination’s Minions; and dinosaurs from Jurassic World.
“It’s an amazing opportunity to bring these iconic stories to life for kids and families to experience, interact with and play together,” Sarah Gibbon, VP & executive producer, Universal Creative, said in a statement. “At each point, we considered how we could design a place especially for kids where they could explore, imagine and adventure with their families and friends. They’ll be able to do all this while being fully immersed in some of their favorite stories — ones full of curiosity, laughter and joy.”
Ground was broken for the unique park in November 2023 by Universal Destinations & Experiences, a division of Comcast NBCUniversal.
Rendering of the hotel face at Universal Kids Resort in Frisco. [Image: Universal Destinations & Experiences]
Fun with themes
The company said that Ogre-sized fun will be on tap in DreamWorks’ Shrek’s swamp-themed playground “built personally by Shrek.” Universal said kids can stomp, ride, laugh, and play “as they celebrate friendship, warmth of family, and the power of love.”
Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick, Sandy Cheeks, and Squidward will show guests around their neighborhood under the sea. From earning a boating license to relaxing on the beach as bubbles float by, kids and their families and friends can enjoy the nautical, nonsensical delights, Universal said.
Illumination’s Minions will overrun a peaceful vacation retreat, Universal said. In the attraction, when Yellow Minions attempt to rein in their Purple counterparts, it will lead to “a wave of unpredictable, water-soaked fun.”
The company said kids will learn about and come face to face with dinosaurs of Jurassic World in uniquely exciting and interactive ways.
DreamWorks’ Trolls will offer a music festival. At the colorful, glittery festival, guests of all sizes get to join Poppy, Branch, and the rest of the gang to bring their voices together in harmony while shining brightly.
The company said more merriment will happen with DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots, Kitty Softpaws, and Perrito. A kitty adoption drive is in full swing with fabulous decorations, sideshow games, fun rides, and festive food.
Play, eat, shop, and rest
The central hub of Universal Kids Resort will feature shady lawns and interactive play areas that give kids and their families space to rest and play. Plus, guests can meet characters such as Gabby from DreamWorks’ Gabby’s Dollhouse in an immersive retail experience.
“At Universal Kids Resort, children will have the opportunity to play, sing, dance and discover with some of their favorite characters,” Dan Cuffe, VP and general manager of Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, said in a statement. “Beyond the highly engaging attractions and shows, families will find ample areas to rest and also enjoy themed food and beverages and shop for fun character souvenirs. Each of these areas elicit wonder with a lush, colorful environment.”
A colorfully themed on-site 300-room hotel designed with families in mind will offer a place to stay, play, and relax after the fun of the park. The vibrant site will also serve as the entrance to Universal Kids Resort, Universal said.
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